San Francisco 49ers Defensive End Aldon Smith Dead at 36: ‘We Are Devastated’

Aldon Smith, a former San Francisco 49ers linebacker, has died. He was 36.

The 49ers released an official statement via X on Saturday, June 13, to confirm the news.

“We are devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of Aldon Smith,” the statement read. “Aldon’s undeniable talent and sheer dominance on the field were on display from the moment he joined our organization, having recorded one of the best rookie seasons the National Football League has seen.”

The organization continued, “Beyond his excellence as a player, Aldon will be remembered for his infectious smile that lit up every room he walked into. Our entire organization sends its deepest condolences to the Smith family and all who knew and loved Aldon.”

An official cause of death has not yet been released.

Shocked fans responded to the news by sharing their devastation over the sport star’s untimely death.

“Damn rip i was just watching his highlights weeks back, damn man,” wrote one X user, while another added, “36 is too damn young!! Rest easy Aldon.”

Another wrote, “So tragic, sad. He was an incredible player.”

Smith was selected by the 49ers with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft and quickly established himself as one of football’s most feared pass rushers. During his first two seasons in the league, he recorded 33.5 sacks across 32 regular-season games.